Sea Link secures development consent to enhance UK electricity network
Secretary of State approves major energy infrastructure project
The Sea Link project has reached a significant milestone with the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero granting development consent for its construction.
This approval allows National Grid to progress with a 138 km subsea electricity link between Kent and Suffolk, designed to enhance the UK’s electricity infrastructure with more secure and sustainable power.
Manufactured by Sumitomo Electric, the subsea cable will be produced in Scotland, supporting job creation and growth within the UK supply chain.
The decision follows an extensive review led by the Planning Inspectorate, involving consultations with local communities, businesses, and environmental organisations in the affected areas.
Adrian Pierssene, Project Director for Sea Link at National Grid, emphasised the project's importance for meeting increasing electricity demands, saying, "Sea Link will help the network carry more secure and home-grown power to where it is needed."
Siemens Energy has been appointed to construct converter stations in Kent and Suffolk, as part of a broader effort to support the UK’s energy transition.
This initiative is part of The Great Grid Upgrade, aimed at reinforcing the electricity network across England and Wales.
Construction is set to begin in early 2027, with completion scheduled for 2031.